Being the Anglophile that I am, the past week has been pretty much non-stop immersion in British media (especially the BBC’s streaming) and soaking up all the history and pageantry that comes with the death of a monarch.

I had written the queen a letter—a brief one—at the time of her Platinum Jubilee, just expressing congratulations and thanks for her service. I didn’t think I’d get anything back, since I’d read that the postage allowed to the monarchy offices had been reduced in the last round of government austerity, so I just sent the note without expecting anything. I just wanted to say thanks. (I think it’s important to say thank you to people!)

When I went to my mailbox yesterday, I found this—the card was postmarked the day before she died.

It was a card from the queen thanking me for my note.

Getting this card, during the time we’re turning the queen’s passing, was very memorable (And a little it eerie, if I’m being honest!). It’s definitely something that I will treasure!